Name: Best No-Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1 cup strong brewed coffee; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes; 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle porter-style beer; 2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; 0.5 cup brown sugar; 0.25 cup ketchup-style chili sauce (such as Heinz®); 0.25 cup chopped jalapeno peppers; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons ground ancho chile powder; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vegetable oil; 2 pounds extra lean ground beef; 2 onions, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 0.5 cup cornmeal

Embrace the rich and savory depths of this bean-free chili, a slow-cooked masterpiece designed to tantalize your taste buds with a symphony of smoky, spicy, and umami notes. Perfect for a hearty meal any time of year.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

15 mins

In a slow cooker, combine the coffee, diced tomatoes, porter beer, tomato paste, beef broth, brown sugar, chili sauce, jalapeno peppers, cumin, cocoa powder, ancho chile powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, coriander, and salt. (Prep time: 15 minutes)

02

Step

10 mins

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, onions, and garlic; cook and stir until the beef is thoroughly browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Add the beef mixture to the slow cooker. (Cook time: 10 minutes)

03

Step

5 mins

Gradually incorporate the cornmeal into the slow cooker, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

04

Step

2 hrs

Reduce the slow cooker setting to Low. Cook for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. (Cook time: 2 hours)

For a richer flavor, consider using a dark roast coffee.
Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers according to your spice preference.
If you don't have porter beer, you can substitute with a dark stout or even additional beef broth.
Ensure the beef is well-browned to develop a deep, savory flavor base.
Serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Estevan Torp

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.0/ 5 ( 9 Ratings)

Total Reviews: (5)

Savanah Krajcik
Jun 4, 2025
I was skeptical about the cocoa powder, but it's a game changer! So delicious.
Vicky Beahan
May 27, 2025
This chili is amazing! I never thought of using coffee, but it adds such a depth of flavor.
Orville Spencer
May 3, 2025
The cornmeal really makes a difference in the texture. It's so smooth and creamy.
Patrick Murray
Mar 22, 2025
I added a little more cayenne pepper for extra heat, and it was perfect!
Sydnee Wuckert
Mar 15, 2025
Easy to make and a real crowd-pleaser. Definitely a new favorite!

Best No-Bean Chili

Ingridients

Nutrition

Follow The Directions

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Estevan Torp

Written by

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